Draft Broadcast Code: Trinidad and Tobago

In August 2008, the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT) published a Draft National Broadcasting Code  for Trinidad and Tobago containing rules for regulating the content of programmes and material transmitted by radio and TV broadcasters (specifically the free-to-air radio, free-to-air TV and the basic (or general audience) package of subscription TV broadcasters).

The Code prescribes specific standards for the broadcast of free-to-air radio and television programmes in relation to a number of issues such as:

• Protection of children and young persons
• Harm and offence
• Crime
• Race
• Due Impartiality and due accuracy in the reporting of news
• Election coverage
• Fairness and privacy
• Right of reply
• Information and warnings
• Advertising and sponsorship
• Religion

The Code also outlines procedures for receiving complaints and for redress.

One Caribbean Media has made extensive comments on the various versions of the Draft Code to promote a co-regulatory approach and to ensure that freedom of expression as enshrined in the Constitution is respected.  It is expected that the Draft Code will be laid in Parliament shortly.  Our comments on the drafts are available for download below.  The Draft Code is available on the website of the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (www.tatt.org.tt)

• Further Comments and Recommendations on the Revised Draft National Broadcasting Code - January 2009

• Comments and Recommendations on the Revised Draft National Broadcasting Code - March 2009